Ontario Obituary – Sheila May Harris Rizzuto, aged 55, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma cancer. Sheila’s passing marks the end of a life that was nothing short of extraordinary. Her strength, grace, and unwavering love for her family defined her remarkable journey, and her legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, Sheila was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, sister, and friend. Her life was rooted in love and family, and these relationships formed the very foundation of her existence. Sheila was the cherished daughter of Joy and Dick Harris, and a loving sister to her siblings: Jennifer (Tony), Rob (Cille), Stephen (Grace), and James. Sheila was also an adored daughter-in-law to Pina and Pasquale Rizzuto, as well as a beloved sister-in-law to Rose (Peter) and Mary (Dave). Her warmth and kindness extended far beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Sheila Rizzuto Toronto, Ontario Death, Obituary: Beloved Resident Passed Away
Sheila’s family was her true north, and she consistently demonstrated a deep devotion to her loved ones. Sheila’s husband, Vito Rizzuto, was the love of her life. Their relationship was a partnership built on mutual respect, admiration, and love. Together, they shared a life filled with moments of joy, challenge, and unwavering support. Vito, along with their two sons, Patrick and Spencer, were the light of Sheila’s life. Sheila was a devoted and loving mother who poured her heart into raising her boys with care, attention, and an unmatched sense of love. Patrick and Spencer were the treasures she cherished most, and they will forever carry her memory with them.
In addition to her devoted family life, Sheila pursued a career that reflected her passion for fashion and her innate sense of style. From a young age, Sheila had an eye for fashion, which naturally led her to the world of personal shopping. She pursued this dream with zeal, bringing her impeccable taste, elegance, and genuine care to her clients. Sheila’s natural style and attention to detail made her a sought-after personal shopper, but it was her kindness and generosity that left the most significant impact on those she worked with. Her clients often spoke of Sheila’s warm nature, her ability to listen, and her desire to make everyone she worked with feel their best. Sheila’s work was more than just a career—it was an extension of her spirit, a testament to her ability to make others feel valued and beautiful.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Sheila was her ability to make everyone around her feel seen and appreciated. She had a gift for making people feel special, for lifting their spirits with her radiant smile and infectious laughter. Sheila was a beacon of light in every room she entered. Her kindness and generosity of heart left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. She radiated warmth and love, and her ability to listen and offer comfort was unmatched. Whether she was offering a listening ear, words of encouragement, or a simple act of kindness, Sheila made the lives of those around her brighter.
Her strength and courage were also defining qualities. Sheila faced her diagnosis of glioblastoma with grace, never allowing it to define her or diminish her love for life. Even in the face of a challenging battle, Sheila remained a source of strength for her family. She embodied the remarkable qualities of her mother, Joy—generosity, selflessness, discipline, and quiet courage—and her family will forever remember her for these qualities.
Sheila was a woman who found joy in life’s simple pleasures. A well-known lover of desserts, Sheila had an undeniable sweet tooth. She never met a pastry, chocolate, or sugary treat that she didn’t adore, and these small indulgences were a reflection of her love for savoring life’s sweet moments. Her ability to find joy in the little things and appreciate the beauty in everyday life was part of what made Sheila such a beloved figure to all who knew her. Her zest for life, paired with her ever-present kindness, was truly contagious, leaving everyone around her with a smile.
Sheila’s passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her. The impact of her love and light will continue to reverberate in the lives of those who were touched by her grace. Her memory will live on through her family, her friends, and the countless lives she made better with her love and kindness. Sheila’s spirit will never fade, and those who were privileged enough to know her will forever hold her close in their hearts.
A visitation, chapel service, and reception will be held to honor Sheila’s life and legacy. The services will take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Centres in Toronto, Ontario, on Monday, March 24, 2025. The details of the service are as follows:
- Visitation: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Chapel Service: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Reception: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
During this time, family, friends, and loved ones will come together to reflect on the life of Sheila Rizzuto, share memories, and celebrate the incredible woman she was. While her loss is deeply felt, those who knew her will forever carry her memory with them, honoring her through the kindness and love they show to others.
Sheila May Harris Rizzuto will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her passing marks the end of a chapter, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of her loved ones. Sheila’s life was a testament to the power of love, strength, and generosity, and she will never be forgotten. As her family and friends say their final goodbyes, they take solace in the knowledge that Sheila’s spirit will remain with them forever.
May Sheila rest in eternal peace. Her love, laughter, and light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing her.
